Discovery Series Ornament – Montréal
This major Canadian city has always been overlooked in terms of ornaments. This injustice came to an end with the rollout of the new collection from Starbucks, which resulted in the release of the Discovery Series Ornament Montréal.
Montreal, founded in 1642 as Ville-Marie by French colonists, is one of the oldest cities in North America. Originally established as a missionary colony, it quickly became an important fur trading post due to its strategic location along the St. Lawrence River. The city passed from French to British control in 1760 during the Seven Years’ War. Montreal played a significant role in Canada’s development, serving as the country’s economic capital for over a century until the 1970s. Throughout its history, the city has been shaped by the blending of French and English cultures, as well as waves of immigration, resulting in the diverse, bilingual metropolis it is today.
The trumpet on the front of the ornament is a reference to the Montreal International Jazz Festival. Founded in 1980, it has grown to become one of the largest and most renowned jazz festivals in the world. Held annually in late June and early July, the festival attracts over two million visitors and features performances by both established jazz legends and emerging artists from around the globe. With a mix of indoor concerts and free outdoor shows spread across multiple stages in downtown Montreal, the festival has become a cornerstone of the city’s cultural identity and a major contributor to its reputation as a vibrant music destination.
The lake just below the title of the ornament is Beaver Lake. Nestled within the verdant expanse of Mount Royal Park, the lake is a serene oasis that truly comes alive in the autumn months. As the foliage transforms into a vibrant mosaic of reds, oranges, and yellows, the lake offers a breathtaking spectacle that captures the essence of the season. Situated conveniently near the Kondiaronk Belvedere (lookout), it provides visitors with stunning panoramic views of Montreal, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll or a peaceful moment of reflection amidst nature’s dazzling display.
Montreal bagels (on the back of the ornament) are a culinary icon, distinctively different from their New York counterparts. These hand-rolled delights are boiled in honey-sweetened water before being baked in wood-fired ovens, giving them a unique sweetness and a slightly denser, chewy texture. Typically smaller and with a larger hole, Montreal bagels often come in classic flavors like sesame or poppy seed. Their rich, smoky aroma and delightful crunch make them a beloved staple for both locals and visitors, embodying the city’s diverse and vibrant food culture.
